If only it were so easy. I am one of those who hides behind the pointless rote small talk because I am inept and awkward beyond that level with anyone I don't know or at least share some context with.

I understand the need to listen and the principle that people love to talk about themselves, but to actually initiate a conversation that draws them out is a skill that some people lack, and I’m one of those.

I just put it down to the introvert/extrovert divide and go hunker down behind my screen. :)